Android P updates experienced on Google Pixel 2 XL smartphone
The beta version of Android P was launched at the recently concluded Google I/O 2018 annual developer conference. It's compatible with 11 different smartphones including Sony Xperia XZ2, Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S, Nokia 7 Plus, Oppo R15 Pro, Vivo X21, OnePlus 6, Essential PH‑1, and Pixel phones. Here are all the Android P changes developers have experienced on the Google Pixel 2 XL.
Android P completely revamps the core navigation of your phone
Android P supports iPhone-like gesture navigation control. There's now a pill-shaped Home button, the back button only shows up in apps, and no Recent Apps button. You'll half swipe up to go to an overview of open apps and full swipe up to go to the app tray. However, gesture navigation has to be activated manually by going to Settings>System>Gestures>Swipe up on Home button.
Android P tries to not bother you with unnecessary notifications
To keep you from mindlessly using your phone, Android P will prompt you to disable notifications you usually swipe away. Notifications on Android P are richer, cleaner and less cluttered.
Do Not Disturb mode
Another feature in Android P is "Wind down." Specify your bedtime to your phone and when it arrives, the device will automatically go into DND mode, becoming entirely grayscale (you can still use it). On turning DND mode on, notifications will fully disappear and won't show on the lock screen or always-on display. Only the contacts you've white-listed will be able to reach you.
Powering the UI with AI
Android P features a new AI functionality called Actions. They are deep links to apps that can be accessed from anywhere on the phone. Actions predicts things you might want to do, say text a friend or re-order food, and puts direct links for those tasks in front of you. Actions can surface anywhere: the launcher, Google Assistant, home screen, and even Play Store.
Calculating battery life based on usage
This AI-powered feature figures out which apps are infrequently used and automatically limits their battery life. It also tells you how long the battery will last based on usage. For example, if your battery is 15% at 10pm, it will tell you that the battery should last till the next morning. Again, this feature has to be manually activated by going to Settings>Battery>Adaptive Battery.
Edit screenshots natively
Android P allows users to edit screenshots natively right after taking them without having to rely on third-party apps for the same. You can also take screenshots directly via the Google Assistant on Android P.
How to install Android P on a compatible device
Visit g.co/androidbeta. Select your compatible smartphone model and click on "Enroll device" next to it. Agree to T&Cs and tap on "Join Beta." Click OK to confirm. The OTA update notification will arrive on your smartphone within 24 hours. When it arrives, tap on "Download." Tap on "Restart" and a preview version of Android P will begin installing on your phone.
